RSL Talking Points: Early storylines heading into FIFA break
We pick out some key narratives from opening two matchweeks
The 2024-25 Roshn Saudi League season may be only two games in, but as we pause for the FIFA international break it’s an opportune time to take stock of what has transpired across the opening 18 matches of the season.
Al Hilal pick up where left off
Having stormed to an undefeated season last year, the biggest question over Jorge Jesus’ side heading into the new campaign was whether they could keep that momentum going after the off-season break.
Their form in the season-opening Saudi Super Cup was ominous, with wins over Al Ahli and Al Nassr sending their rivals a warning that they were still the team to beat, and that feels still very much the case after the opening two games of the season.
Al Hilal fans enjoyed that one! #RoshnSaudiLeague pic.twitter.com/tvHp21QAA6
Two matches, two wins and six goals scored. While they were made to work for their most recent win, against Damac, having to come from 2-1 down to take all three points, that they were able to dig themselves out of the mire will serve only to reinforce the overwhelming sense of belief within the squad.
Their next two fixtures upon resumption will be enlightening: Al Hilal contest a Riyadh Derby against a vastly improved Al Riyadh, and then the Saudi Clasico against expected title rivals Al Ittihad. If Al Hilal can get through those unscathed, it would send a major statement out across the league.
Al Ittihad show fighting spirit
For Al Ittihad, this season was all about redemption after their poor title defence last season, when they ultimately finished fifth.
With a new manager in Laurent Blanc, and a host of headline-grabbing signings led by Moussa Diaby, there was plenty of intrigue as to how Al Ittihad would perform this time around. After a, by his standards, a lacklustre debut season in the RSL, there were greater expectations placed upon captain Karim Benzema to drag his team back into the title fight.
Aouar just keeps on delivering when it matters for Al Ittihad! pic.twitter.com/hvf3hAyoyX
The early signs from the Jeddah giants are promising, with two wins on the bounce. What will be especially pleasing for Blanc is that both games have been decided deep into stoppage time.
While the preference would be to put the contest out of reach earlier, the fact Al Ittihad have been able to find late, late winners in both matches shows a spirit and resolve in the team, which was evident in the way Houssem Aouar celebrated his last-gasp winner against Al Taawoun on Thursday.
As the team still find their feet under Blanc, getting points on the board early is paramount. Champions in 2022-23 and eager to make up for last term, can Al Ittihad keep the good times rolling?
